Dancing with Chicago Celebrities Marks 18th Year, Raises $4M for B…

Inside Chicago’s Arthur Murray studio, a dance event unlike any other takes shape, blending entertainment with a profound purpose. Jill DeMarlo, the force behind bringing Arthur Murray Dance Studios to Chicago, was inspired by her mother’s battle with breast cancer to create Dancing with Chicago Celebrities, an annual competition that has, over 18 years, raised more than $4 million for breast cancer research and support.

A Fusion of Dance and Philanthropy

The event, now in its 18th year, has perfected a formula that combines celebrity dance-offs with corporate stars and professional dancers, making it a unique fundraiser in the fight against breast cancer. DeMarlo shares how the event’s focus on celebrating both corporate and media stars has enhanced its longevity and impact, creating a platform where participants like Roz Varen and Tiffany Hodgin find solace and purpose. Varen found dancing to be a rare respite from her cancer battle, while Hodgin participated in memory of her friend Wendy Schuman, who lost her battle with the disease at 35.

Memories, Motivations, and Moving Forward

Last year, Hodgin raised $115,000 in honor of Schuman, showcasing the deep personal connections and motivations that fuel the event’s success. Her story exemplifies the event’s emotional depth, transforming a personal tragedy into a powerful force for good. The support and enthusiasm from her colleagues at Ernst and Young, who stood in ovation during her performance, highlighted the communal spirit and collective effort towards a cancer-free future.

Impact Beyond the Dance Floor

The funds raised by Dancing with Chicago Celebrities support various local breast cancer research groups and organizations, including the Silver Lining Foundation, which aids women in underserved communities. This wide-reaching impact underscores the event’s role not just as a fundraiser, but as a beacon of hope and support for those affected by breast cancer, offering both immediate aid and contributing to the long-term goal of eradicating the disease.

As Dancing with Chicago Celebrities continues to grow, its blend of celebration, remembrance, and philanthropy serves as a powerful testament to the strength of community and the enduring spirit of those fighting against breast cancer. While the lights may dim on the dance floor, the hope and determination it ignites endure, driving forward the quest for a cure and honoring the memories of those like Wendy Schuman, whose lives inspire others to dance, remember, and fight back against cancer.